Cross Breeds

New seeds, where to plant for garden.?

I live in Central North Texas west of Fort Worth on my own little Rock of Gibraltar. My south facing back yard has one tree. So I have full sun (10am to 5pm), partial, mottled sun (all day) and 2 hour morning sun only (the house shades this spot). Last year, my tomato (full sun) yield was poor as were my green peppers (full sun). I can't get grass to grow back there, much less veggies. I compost for healthy dirt, but nothing seems to work. So, I don't really care where I plant things back there. I do have a "arboretum" coming along, but that takes money and time. Those things are close to the house and already in the ground. I hate the tree as the roots pop up above ground making it dangerous to walk (still wearing bandaids cuz of the holes in my foot). So, with all your great knowledge, please tell me where to plant the following. Cantaloupe Acorn Squash (I know these viney critters from past experiences) Rutgers' Tomatos Cherry tomatos Snap peas Pole beans I have an herb garden in the front yard that's been doing better every year. Seems the garlic chives and onions do best in the front, so I will keep them there. My husband gave me carte blanche on the entire back yard. The only pests I get are stray cats and huge banana spiders that talk back atcha! Plus, the occasional praying mantis, geckos and grass snakes. I'm not worried about critters. The cats piss me off more than the bugs bug me. So, if you can, help me figure out the back yard so I can eat this summer. And, yes I have my own roto tiller.

Public Comments

1. Some trees drop fruit that actually makes the soil under them poison to anything you try to grow. Mullberry trees are a common cause. Check out what trees you have and check with the nursery if any of them have toxic properties to the soil. Try building up the area you want to plant in to around 12 inches. That should help. Tomatoes need full sun. Beans will take a little shade (not too much) Peas will get mildew disease if they are in too much shade I've grown squash in the shade successfully, I think the cantaloupe will cope with it (they're more or less the same family). You can pick it and put it in the sun to ripen it up in any case. have fun and good luck